Former Rilya Caseworker Pleads Not Guilty To Theft

November 8, 2002|STAFF REPORTS

Miami — DeBorah Muskelly, Rilya Wilson's former caseworker, pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges she stole money from the state by claiming she was visiting foster children while she was actually working as a substitute teacher. Prosecutors say they will offer Muskelly a plea deal.

Muskelly entered a written plea and did not attend Thursday's hearing in Miami-Dade criminal court. She is accused of stealing more than $7,800 from the Department of Children & Families for work hours she claimed.

Muskelly is accused of 41 counts that include grand theft, official misconduct and petit theft. According to DCF officials, Muskelly had not checked on Rilya Wilson since January 2001.